COLUMN: Narrow gauge rail line built operated by Creston man

Every railroad enthusiast at one time or another has had visions of having a real mans-size live steam railroad in his backyard. Bryon P. Hiatt, a plumber and steam fitter, had the patience and perseverance it takes to fulfill that ambition and it only took him 17 years from start to finish, with World War II in the way of his serving during that war.

When he finally finished his project, the year was 1950. Public riding was a cost of 14 cents per person. Byron estimates that each time he runs his train, only on Sunday and holidays, he attracts about 1,200 riders. I would have been somewhere between six and seven when I had my first ride in one of Byron’s trains, a ride that I have never forgotten.

I gleaned my information from the Creston News Advertiser from June 8, 1950. However, greater information can be obtained from a three-ring binder compiled by Steve Francis and located at the Union County Historical Information Office, including many photographic pictures.